Livnot U’Lehibanot: Orah Pourati of Los Angeles Joins Efforts to Rebuild Northern Israel

Orah Pourati

For more than 45 years, Livnot U’Lehibanot has been based in Tzfat, blending community service, experiential education, and spiritual exploration to connect young adults from around the world to Israel and to the Jewish people.

Livnot U’Lehibanot continues its vital work rebuilding northern communities and strengthening the connection between young Diaspora Jews and meaningful service in Israel. Among those who joined the organization’s efforts is Orah Pourati from Los Angeles.

Orah chose to spend part of her stay in Israel volunteering with Livnot U'LeHibanot, dedicating a full week to hands-on rebuilding and community support alongside Livnot U’Lehibanot’s team in areas impacted by the war.

During her week of volunteering in the Upper Galilee, Orah took part in several meaningful community-rebuilding projects:

Throughout the week, Livnot U’Lehibanot’s volunteers helped the Peretz family rebuild their home on Moshav Avivim, which is located on the Lebanese border.  The residents of Avivim were evacuated during the war.  The Peretz's house was damaged when rockets, shot by Hezbollah in Lebanon, landed nearby.

“We also volunteered in Kibbutz Malkia, another border community that was evacuated. There we helped organize and prepare the kindergarten renovated by Livnot U’Lehibanot, so that the children of Malkiya can return safely”.

Orah shared that the experience was powerful and deeply moving:

“It was a privilege to stand with the people here, hear their stories, and see where we could truly help. They keep thanking us, but the truth is that we thank them — for their strength, resilience, and determination to rebuild their lives.”

She adds:

“It was a meaningful and emotional week for all of us. I encourage everyone to come and take part in this amazing program”.

Alumot: Launch of the Los Angeles Chapter

Over 15,000 participants have taken part in Livnot programs, many experiencing their first Shabbat in Israel through the organization’s unique approach to community, spirituality, and personal growth.

As part of Livnot’s mission to strengthen and support its global community, Alumot — Livnot’s alumni network — will officially launch its Los Angeles chapter on December 21st at 10:30 AM with a volunteering event in Santa Monica.

Open to alumni and friends, the event will embody Livnot’s core values: community connection, personal growth, and Jewish learning. Participants will gather to spread the Livnot light and celebrate the uplifting spirit of Hanukkah while contributing to positive change in the local community.